Dr. Joanna Maria Thomas

Dr. Joanna Maria Thomas has extensive work experience in the healthcare industry. Dr. Joanna Maria currently serves as the Vice President of Clinical Strategy & Population Health at Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield, where they lead a team of over 200 clinical staff. Their role involves incorporating Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning into workflows, translating clinical interventions into economic impact, and supporting sales and marketing strategies.

Prior to their current role, Dr. Thomas worked as the Corporate Medical Director, National Accounts at Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield. In this position, they implemented an interprofessional custom care management program and ensured consistency around National Coverage Policy. Dr. Joanna Maria also communicated these efforts to employers and supported business leads.

Before joining Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield, Dr. Thomas served as the Regional Medical Director. Dr. Joanna Maria collaborated with Regional Executives, Sales, and Marketing teams to emphasize the importance of using data to provide clinical insights. Dr. Joanna Maria also traveled throughout the region to engage local providers and promote high-quality primary care.

Dr. Thomas has also worked at UAMS - University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Public Health as an Associate Professor. Dr. Joanna Maria was involved in developing health education programs, securing grant funding, and presenting at national conferences.

At UAMS - University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Dr. Thomas held various positions including Associate Professor with Tenure, Associate Residency Director, Interim Residency Director, Assistant Professor, and Clinical Instructor. Dr. Joanna Maria played a significant role in the training of family physicians and medical students, while also contributing to curriculum design and expanding medical education in the northwest part of Arkansas.

Early in their career, Dr. Thomas worked as a Ship Physician for Epirotiki Cruise Lines.

Overall, Dr. Joanna Maria Thomas has gained significant experience and expertise through their diverse roles in healthcare management, education, and clinical practice.

Dr. Joanna Maria Thomas received their Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) from the University of Liverpool in 1984. Dr. Joanna Maria also completed their Internship/House Officer in Medicine and Surgery at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital in 1985. Additionally, they pursued Vocational Training in General Practice at the University of Liverpool from 1985 to 1989. Dr. Joanna Maria furthered their education by completing the AHEC Northwest Family Medicine Residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences from 1991 to 1993. Dr. Thomas obtained multiple certifications, including a Diplomate of the American Board of Family Medicine in 1993, a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians in 1998, and an Arkansas State Medical License in 1992.